The art of a flat lay lies in choosing the perfect backdrop, finding complementary styling and detail items, and arranging them aesthetically.
Backdrop
First and foremost, consider your color palette and theme. If you are using textured or patterned linens in other areas of your decor, consider requesting an extra to be used for flat lays. If your stationary design has a stunning pattern or design, consider printing a custom wallpaper or printed fabric. Other options include searching your venue for unique flooring, rugs, or paintings that can be used as a backdrop.
Styling Items
Gorgeous details that pair with your theme and colors can be seamlessly included. Those can be fabric, trays, fruit, or any unique item that complements your color palette. Get creative here and think outside the box. Grapes, pears, and other fruit can be a fun addition that add texture and visual interest. Go thrifting for a unique ring or jewelry tray or any items that match your colors or theme. Have swan details incorporated on your stationary? Look for little swan trinkets or motifs.
Your Details
Invitations are often the centerpiece, along with the whole suite and wax seals. Include two copies of every piece of stationary that is printed on both sides. That way your photographer can capture both designs simultaneously. Other details include the gown, veil, shoes, jewelry, perfume, rings, menu cards, programs, vow books, family heirlooms, and any additional detail you consider important. Make sure to include any favors such as monogrammed matchboxes, napkins with your dogs faces on them, or custom printed tambourines. Finally, don’t forget to bring a simple or personalized hanger for your dress.
Blooms
One of the most complementary details to include is flowers. Ask your florist to include some extra loose blossoms, if possible. They add so much color and variety to the detail photos and create a cohesive gallery from start to finish.
Here is a check list of potential items to include. Do not feel the need to include every item. Only choose the items that are the most meaningful to you and the most complementary to your aesthetic.
Check-List
STATIONERY:
INVITATION SUITE / ENVELOPES
CEREMONY PROGRAM
MENU CARD / PLACE CARD
SAVE-THE-DATE
WAX SEALS / STAMP
VOW BOOKS
HERS:
DRESS
VEIL
BRIDAL SHOES
JEWELRY (EARRINGS, NECKLACE, ETC)
PERFUME
RINGS
BOUQUET
CLUTCH
DRESS HANGER
HIS:
BOW TIE / TIE / TIE CLIP
CUFF LINKS
SHOES / SOCKS
COLOGNE
WHISKY / CIGAR
RING
WATCH
EXTRAS:
LOOSE FLORALS
FAMILY HEIRLOOMS
RING BOX
HANDWRITTEN NOTES
CHAMPAGNE FLUTES
PERSONALIZED NAPKIN / MATCHBOX / ETC
TRAY OR STYLING DISH
COLOR COORDINATING FRUIT OR DECOR
LINEN OR MAT FOR BACKDROP
